Public concern is growing in Niger State following reports that a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was allegedly assaulted by security operatives after criticizing Governor Mohammed Umar Bago over the party’s primary process.
The victim, identified as Dzukogi, is reportedly a staff member of the Federal Medical Centre Bida in Bida.
According to reports, Dzukogi had posted a video in the Nupe language accusing the governor of imposing candidates during the APC primaries and failing to keep earlier political promises.
In the video, he reportedly expressed frustration over the conduct of the primaries and stated that he would leave the matter to God.
Shortly afterward, videos and reports circulated online allegedly showing plainclothes operatives beating and humiliating him on a roadside dirt patch, an incident that triggered widespread condemnation on social media.
Critics described the alleged assault as an attack on freedom of expression and democratic rights, with some commentators comparing the incident to authoritarian practices associated with military rule.
The controversy comes amid growing tensions within the APC in several states over allegations of consensus candidate imposition, irregular primaries, and internal suppression of dissenting voices ahead of the 2027 elections.
Supporters and civil society voices online demanded an investigation into the alleged assault and called for the immediate release or clarification of Dzukogi’s whereabouts, which reportedly remained unknown as of the time of reporting.
Neither the Niger State Government nor security authorities had issued an official statement addressing the allegations.
Political analysts say the incident reflects increasing tensions within political parties as competition intensifies ahead of the next election cycle.
Observers also warn that allegations of intimidation against party members could deepen concerns about internal democracy, political tolerance, and civil liberties in Nigeria’s evolving political environment.
The incident has continued to generate debate across social media platforms, where many Nigerians are calling for accountability and protection of citizens’ rights regardless of political affiliation.
